Road trips are one of the most exciting ways to explore new destinations, offering the freedom to discover hidden gems and breathtaking landscapes at your own pace. From coastal drives to mountain passes, scenic routes provide unparalleled views, cheap airline tickets and car rental unforgettable experiences, and the opportunity to connect with nature in a way that no other form of travel can. Here’s a guide to some of the most scenic and memorable road trips around the world that will leave you inspired to hit the open road.
- Pacific Coast Highway (USA)
The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is one of the most iconic road trips in the world, stretching along California’s stunning coastline from Southern California to Northern California. This 655-mile route offers spectacular views of rugged cliffs, expansive beaches, and the deep blue Pacific Ocean. Along the way, you can stop in charming coastal towns like Carmel-by-the-Sea, Big Sur, and Santa Barbara. The Bixby Creek Bridge and the majestic cliffs of Big Sur are among the most photographed spots, while the scenic drive offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, whale watching, and exploring the seaside. - Great Ocean Road (Australia)
Australia’s Great Ocean Road is a must-see for those who love dramatic coastlines and natural wonders. Starting in Torquay and winding along the southern coast of Victoria, this 151-mile stretch is home to the famous Twelve Apostles—towering limestone stacks rising out of the Southern Ocean. Along the route, you’ll encounter beautiful beaches, rainforests, and charming coastal towns like Apollo Bay and Lorne. The road also takes you through the Otway Ranges, where you can explore lush forests and waterfalls. The great Ocean Road is a perfect mix of natural beauty and laid-back coastal vibes. - Route 66 (USA)
Known as the “Main Street of America, ” Route 66 offers a nostalgic road trip experience across the united states, stretching from Chicago to Santa Monica. This 2, 400-mile route is rich in history and Americana, taking you through small towns, quirky roadside attractions, and iconic landmarks like the Cadillac Ranch in Texas and the Grand Canyon in Arizona. Route 66 offers a glimpse into mid-20th-century American culture, with vintage diners, motels, and gas stations lining the route. For those looking for a blend of history, culture, and the open road, Route 66 is an unforgettable journey. - The Icefields Parkway (Canada)
The Icefields Parkway, located in the Canadian Rockies, is one of the most scenic drives in the world. This 142-mile stretch between Banff and Jasper National Parks is a visual feast, with snow-capped mountains, glaciers, turquoise lakes, and vast wilderness stretching as far as the eye can see. The road passes by stunning landmarks such as the Columbia Icefield, Athabasca Falls, and Bow Lake. Whether you’re hiking through pristine forests or enjoying the view from the comfort of your car, this road trip offers an awe-inspiring adventure in one of the world’s most beautiful natural settings. - The Ring Road (Iceland)
Iceland’s Ring Road, also known as Route 1, is a 830-mile loop that circles the island, offering travelers a diverse array of landscapes, from glaciers and volcanoes to waterfalls and black sand beaches. The drive takes you past some of Iceland’s most famous natural wonders, including the Golden Circle, the Blue Lagoon, and the stunning waterfalls of Gullfoss and Skógafoss. Along the way, you’ll encounter picturesque coastal villages and have opportunities to spot wildlife like puffins and seals. Whether you’re exploring glaciers, soaking in geothermal hot springs, or marveling at the Northern Lights, the Ring Road is an epic road trip full of natural beauty. - The Garden Route (South Africa)
South Africa’s Garden Route is a 180-mile stretch along the southern coast, known for its diverse landscapes and vibrant wildlife. Starting in the city of Cape Town, the route winds through lush forests, dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and charming towns like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to visit nature reserves, spot elephants in Addo Elephant Park, or hike in Tsitsikamma National Park. The Garden Route is perfect for those seeking a blend of adventure, nature, and coastal beauty, with plenty of opportunities to explore the rich flora and fauna of this stunning region. - The North Coast 500 (Scotland)
Scotland’s North Coast 500 is a 500-mile loop around the Scottish Highlands, offering an unforgettable road trip experience with dramatic coastal scenery, rugged mountains, and historic castles. The route begins and ends in Inverness and takes you along the northernmost edges of Scotland, through remote villages, ancient ruins, and breathtaking landscapes like the cliffs of the Orkney Islands. Highlights include the pristine beaches of Durness, the mystical Loch Ness, and the charming fishing town of Ullapool. For travelers seeking tranquility, natural beauty, and a sense of adventure, the North Coast 500 is an ideal road trip destination. - Stelvio Pass (Italy)
For those who enjoy winding mountain roads and stunning alpine scenery, Italy’s Stelvio Pass is a must-drive route. Located in the Italian Alps, this 12-mile stretch features 48 hairpin turns and ascends over 9, 000 feet, making it one of the highest paved roads in Europe. The route connects the town of Bormio to Prato allo Stelvio and offers panoramic views of jagged peaks, glacial valleys, and lush meadows. The Stelvio Pass is not only a thrilling drive but also a scenic one, with opportunities to stop and take in the stunning vistas or hike in the surrounding mountains. - The Atlantic Road (Norway)
The Atlantic Road, or Atlanterhavsveien, is one of Norway’s most famous scenic routes, known for its dramatic coastal views and striking engineering. This 5-mile stretch of road connects a series of small islands off the coast of Norway and features a series of bridges that curve and twist over the ocean, offering views of rugged coastlines, fjords, and the open sea. The Atlantic Road is a perfect route for those seeking adventure, with the chance to explore nearby fishing villages, spot wildlife, and enjoy the ever-changing coastal weather. - The Silk Road (Central Asia)
For those looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience, the Silk Road offers a historic and scenic road trip across Central Asia. This ancient trade route stretches from China through Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and beyond, passing through desert landscapes, ancient cities, and bustling markets. Highlights include the ancient city of Samarkand in Uzbekistan, the mountain roads of Kyrgyzstan, and the stunning landscapes of Kazakhstan’s steppes. The Silk Road offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, perfect for those seeking an adventurous and immersive road trip.
Conclusion
Whether you’re driving along the rugged coastlines of California, winding through the Scottish Highlands, or experiencing the historical allure of the Silk Road, these scenic routes offer unforgettable experiences that will stay with you long after the journey ends. Each road trip promises breathtaking views, cultural encounters, and the freedom to explore the world at your own pace. So, pack your bags, fuel up, and get ready to embark on a road trip that will take you on the adventure of a lifetime.
John